Mount Miguel High School

Taking College Classes

Early College High School at Mount Miguel

Mount Miguel is becoming Mount Miguel Early College High School (MMECHS).

That means students can take real college classes while they are still in high school, with support from our staff and counselors.

Our goal is simple: Every student should graduate prepared for college and a career.

What is Mount Miguel Early College High School?

Our Early College High School is a high school that:

Partners closely with a local community college. For Mount Miguel, that would be Cuyamaca Community College
Offers students the chance to take free college courses alongside their high school classes
Provides extra support so students can be successful in those classes

Students can:

Earn transferable college units
Explore majors and careers
Build confidence by succeeding in college-level work before they graduate

How does Early College work at Mount Miguel?

At Mount Miguel, Early College will grow over the next few years so that more students, earlier, can:

Take college classes through Cuyamaca Community College, which are provided at no cost to students or families
Earn college credit that may transfer to CSU, UC, and other universities (depending on the course and campus)
Connect their college classes to our CTE pathways, academies, and other programs

Most students will:

Start with 1–2 college classes, often in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
Take classes that count for both high school graduation and college credit (dual credit when available)
Have a high school teacher/counselor helping them stay organized, communicate with professors, and understand expectations

Some students may choose to go further and work toward:

A larger number of college units
A certificate or a clear pathway toward a degree
In some cases, a college associate's degree is earned during high school

Taking college classes is NOT a requirement for attending Mount Miguel. We are providing students with an opportunity.

Why does Mount Miguel Early College matter?

It matters for students because:

They can earn college credits, or even an associate degree, before graduating high school, which can save time and money later.
They experience what college actually feels like with more independence, faster pacing, and higher expectations.
They can choose from a broad range of courses offered beyond the high school campus, while also building skills and confidence in their future careers.

It matters for the community because:

Mount Miguel Early College High School will increase graduation rates and career readiness
Our students will have a head start on their higher education and subsequent career paths.
Our students will have greater access to career growth in high-demand fields such as engineering, business, trades and health pathways.

Why should you care?

Every MMECHS graduate will have a genuine college experience — one that builds confidence, strengthens community, and opens pathways to higher education and careers.

Who can participate?

Early College is designed for all Mount Miguel students.

There is no single “early college” track
Counselors will help students choose college classes that fit their goals, skills, and schedule
Families are part of the planning process, especially when a student takes their first college course

Some students may start earlier or take more classes; others may decide to take only one, or two, or none at all. Our job is to help students and families decide what makes sense.

What classes do students take?

College classes might include:

General education courses (English, math, social science, humanities, etc.)
Classes connected to our CTE pathways (business, digital media, engineering, health, etc.)
Courses that help students explore majors and careers

Students can take classes in-person, online (synchronous or asynchronous), or in a supported class on Mount Miguel's campus.

What are the supports for students and families?

We know that taking a college class can feel like a big step. That’s why we build support into the program:

Counselors and teachers help students choose classes and understand how they fit into long-term goals.
Teachers and house leads help students connect college coursework to what they’re doing in high school.
Workshops and info nights help families understand expectations, grading, and timelines.
Support staff help with basic needs, technology, and other challenges that can get in the way of learning.

Our goal is not just to get students into college classes, but to help them thrive in them.

Is Early College right for my student?

Early College could be a good fit if your student:

Is curious about college and wants to challenge themselves
Has goals that include college, technical training, or a career that requires education after high school
Wants to save time and money by earning college credits while still in high school
Could benefit from exploring majors and careers before graduating

Even if your student is unsure about college, trying one supported college class can help them see what is possible.

How do I get started?

If you’re interested in Early College:

Talk with your counselor
- Discuss your interests, strengths, and long-term goals.
Attend an information session
- We host family nights and student meetings with details about upcoming college opportunities.

8585 Blossom Lane

Spring Valley CA 91977

(619) 667-6400

Grossmont Union High School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability or affiliation with the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups or any other basis protected by law or regulation, in its educational program(s) or employment. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:

Additional Title IX non-discrimination information
4119.26 BP Employee/Student Interaction Policy
Additional non-discrimination and related policies
Complaint- Uniform Complaint/Other

Title IX Coordinator - Mary Nishikawa, Director I - Student Support Services, 1100 Murray Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020; (619) 644-8012; mnishikawa@guhsd.net
Title II/ADA Coordinator - Paul Dautremont, Assistant Superintendent; 1100 Murray Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020; (619) 644-8041; pdautremont@guhsd.net
Section 504 Coordinator - Lauren Basteyns, Director II / Principal, B.L./Academic Intervention, 1100 Murray Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020; (619) 593-2763; lbasteyns@guhsd.net

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